England-Brazil: "Mature" Miranda looking to press World Cup place

Atlético Madrid defender Miranda will return to the Brazil national team this week as they face England at Wembley, with the aim of securing his place at the 2014 World Cup.

Miranda, 28, represented Brazil on six occasions after making his debut in 2009, but believes that he is a better and more mature player for his move from São Paulo to Atlético in 2011.

A Europa League winner in 2011-12, Miranda has been a crucial player in his side flying high in 2nd place in the Premier League and hopes that his form will see him maintain a place in the Seleção until the coming World Cup.

“The aim is to remain in the side until the World Cup. I return to the national team more experienced and more mature,” Miranda told reporters.

“I have learned many things here in Europe. I came across at a very good time. I'm at my peak, in a brilliant run of form and I have been praised a lot by the Spanish.

“I was not frustrated, because I always calm that I would be called up sooner or later.”